The Surprising Truth about Root Canal Treatment – What You Need to Know, by Novato Sedation Dentist

Written by Dr. McConnell on Apr 24, 2018

If there’s one dental procedure that’s universally dreaded, it’s root canals. Almost everyone sees a root canal as being a painful and challenging experience, but there’s one crucial fact the Novato sedation dentist wants you to know – root canals don’t cause pain, they relieve it.

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy is needed to remove an infection or extensive decay from the pulp deep inside your tooth. Dental pulp carries the blood vessels and nerves that keep the tooth alive. 

When an infection reaches this part of your tooth, you experience pain that continues to develop until you’re unable to function, and you finally give in and call the dentist. Unfortunately, it’s this intense discomfort that gives root canals their negative reputation. The pain isn’t a result of root canal treatment; it’s the result of the infection.

What Happens During a Root Canal?


The first step is a local anesthetic to numb the tooth we’re treating, and at that moment all your pain will wash away. The Novato sedation dentist has many ways to keep you comfortable during treatment, and we may recommend nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or an oral sedative. These options combined with the local anesthetic should be enough to keep you pain-free throughout the procedure.

Treatment involves opening a tiny hole in your tooth so our dentist can reach its interior. Using special instruments, the infected pulp is cleared away and a material is used to fill the canals. Finally, a temporary filling is placed until the tooth heals and we know the infection is gone. At some point after, a crown will need to be placed to protect the weakened tooth.

Don’t Put Off Root Canal Treatment


A root canal is a serious problem and needs to be addressed as quickly as possible to save the tooth. If you are in pain and suspect it might be time for a root canal, please call our office so we can arrange to see you as soon as possible and provide the relief you need.